Housing

Abstract

Namibia is compelled to observe and to undertake efforts to realise the right to adequate housing, since it has ratified the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights in 1994. In short, the right to adequate housing does not mean that governments should build a house for every citizen, but it does compel them to demonstrate that they are taking steps to realise this right for every citizen. This right includes security of tenure; availability of services, materials, facilities and infrastructure; affordability; habitability; accessibility; adequate location; and cultural adequacy. It furthermore includes protection against forced evictions, arbitrary interference with one’s home, and the right to determine one’s place of living. Furthermore, this right is envisioned to be progressively attained